An Encouragement to All Frustrated Christian Politicians

Before I begin, let me say that I am convinced that Christ has commissioned His followers into every segment of society. There are Christians called into politics. I know a few of them and admire their courage and sacrifice. They have been on my mind lately. I believe God would have them consider this encouragement.

14 You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. 16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven. Matthew 5:14-16

The command of this verse is not to do good works, but to let your light shine. John 1:4 tells us that our light is the Life of Christ. If you are trying to hide your light, that you might somehow do good works, then you are missing the mark (a good definition for sin).

As we know from Ephesians 2:10, you have been created for good works that you should walk in them. Notice it does not say “that you should do them”. It is God’s work; for He will receive the glory for it. If it is your work, then you will receive the glory – and be very frustrated.

Don’t put yourself in a frustrated position with God. The political arena has enough frustrations of its own. Do not let your frustration with the world’s system (of the people, by the people and for the people) drive you to compromise. Focus on what you are commanded to do, and you will find joyful, Spirit-filled ministry.

We (the church) lost the glory of God when we started doing God’s work man’s way. The glory will return when we start doing God’s work His way. This may not mean what you think it means.

For since the beginning of the world men have not heard nor perceived by the ear, nor has the eye seen any God besides You, Who acts for the one who waits for Him. Isaiah 64:4

For the eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is loyal to Him. 2Chronicles 16:9

God is not waiting on you to act (i.e., to change the political process). He is waiting on you to wait on Him, that He might act. Even in politics: Trust and obey, there is no other way to be happy in Jesus, but to trust and obey.

You are the light. Be what you are. The world and its systems are at enmity with God. They are only doing what is expected – being evil. They are not capable of accomplishing God’s purpose because He is at enmity with them.

Surely you see it – particularly in the political arena: The darkness is getting darker – in every branch of government and at every level. The Holy Scriptures are clear: This is the way things go for the world. It is a sad time in America, but it is a great time of opportunity; for you are the light and there are no coincidences for God’s children.

God desires for you to find joyful, Spirit-filled ministry in your area of calling. He will get you there if you will trust Him. There are three fundamental steps that you must take to walk in the light of your calling. Read Psalm 37:4-6 and consider the following:

Surrender to His Purpose – The word delight in verse 4 actually means “to be soft”, like clay in the Potter’s hands (look it up if you don’t believe me). Surrender and your desire will become His purpose. Then you can claim the promises of Job 42:2 and Romans 8:28. Be careful: Don’t assume you know His purpose. Wait on Him to establish or affirm it. He is not as interested in your fixing the world and its systems as He is in your being a disciple making transformation agent. Your battle is not against flesh and blood.

Sacrifice to His Plan – Commit your way to Him means to let Him direct your path. It must be His plan, not yours or anyone else’s. His plan will require sacrifice simply because you are a follower of Christ. His walk, his path, was one of sacrifice.

Submit to His Power – His purpose manifests in an assignment for you that is filled with light and justice. Your righteousness is Jesus Christ and His life is your light. It is the Holy Spirit’s responsibility to transform you for your assignment (2Corinthians 3:18). You must allow Him to remove what doesn’t belong (e.g., pride, impatience, a judgmental spirit) and build up in you what is the provision of God for your assignment (e.g., faith, grace, courage).

Joyful, Spirit-filled ministry awaits every one of God’s appointed leaders in the Marketplace. May He bless you in the coming days with courage, strength and the fellowship you need to meet the challenges you face as light in a dark world.

Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might; for GOD IS EXCEEDINGLY GREATER THAN WE CAN IMAGINE!!!